Port Blair: Prof. P. Prakash Babu, Vice Chancellor of Pondicherry University, has called for continuous environmental responsibility and stressed the importance of youth in fostering sustainable practices during the valedictory function of World Environment Day 2025 celebrations organized by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, and EIACP Centre on Island Biodiversity.

Speaking at the ZSI Auditorium in Sri Vijaya Puram on 5th June, Prof. Babu praised the organisers for conducting a series of impactful activities involving youth and scientific discussions. He underscored the ecological significance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, suggesting the region could serve as a national model for sustainable and responsible tourism.

Prof. Babu warned about the growing threat of microplastics, describing them as "invisible pollutants" infiltrating the food chain and potentially causing serious health issues including cancer. Urging a collective effort, he appealed to citizens to avoid single-use plastics and called on authorities to enforce plastic bans and promote biodegradable alternatives.

He emphasized the critical role of students and educational institutions in driving environmental change and encouraged children to influence sustainable habits within their homes. “Environmental protection should not be limited to one day,” he said, urging year-round commitment.

The event was attended by dignitaries including Dr. Ramakrishna, former ZSI Director; Pallavi Sarkar, IAS; Dr. Lal Ji Singh, Botanical Survey of India; and Prof. S. Kannan of Madurai Kamaraj University. Certificates were distributed to winners of various competitions, marking the conclusion of the celebrations.